Offensive lineman shows patriotism through flag run tradition
The Kinkaid football team charges forward, with Klosek carrying the American flag.
November 16, 2021
Before every game this season, the Kinkaid varsity football team broke through a banner as it ran onto the field. That is a tradition.
Senior Jack Klosek, offensive lineman, introduced what might become another tradition. In all 11 games, he held the American flag as the team destroyed the banner and he held it on the sideline during the national anthem.
Running with an American flag is not uncommon among Texas high school football teams. Many of the teams Kinkaid plays do the same thing.
For Klosek, running with the flag displayed his patriotism and honored the U.S. .
Senior Sam Pitts, a defensive back on the Falcon varsity football team, said it is characteristic of Klosek to show such patriotism.
“Jack is the definition of a proud American,” Pitts said.
However, for Klosek, there was something more important.
“Marking 20 years since 9/11, I wanted to honor my dad’s former teammate, friend and work colleague, Paul Acquaviva,” Klosek said. Mr. Acquaviva died during the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.
With Klosek graduating next year, junior Johnny Griggs is set to carry the flag.
“He is a leader and a proud American,” Klosek said of Griggs. “I hope he continues to represent the winning tradition of Kinkaid football.”
Klosek said he thinks the team also should represent the state with a Texas flag.
Traditions aside, varsity football had an exciting season. The team lost only two games this year and finished off the season with a win in the SPC championship.
